Trainable Transceiver And Method Of Operation Utilizing Existing Vehicle User Interfaces

ABSTRACT

A transmitter device for coupling to a vehicle and for conducting a transmission to a remote system includes a transmitter and a processing circuit coupled to the transmitter and having an input interface. The input interface is coupled to an existing user interface of the vehicle for receiving an input to cause the transmitter to conduct its transmission to the remote system. The input interface is coupled to a vehicle sensor for receiving a vehicle sensor input including a motion status of the vehicle. The processing circuit is configured to prevent the transmitter from conducting its transmission to the remote system unless the motion status of the vehicle indicates the vehicle is travelling at a speed less than a threshold speed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of and to U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/061,606, filed Oct. 8, 2014, which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates generally to the field of vehicles, andmore particularly to a trainable transceiver unit for installation invehicles.

Many larger vehicles (e.g., cars, trucks) may have a button or remotecontrol that is trained to operate, for example, a garage door, securitygate, home lighting system, or home security system. Such a button orremote control may be provided in a location easily accessible to adriver or passenger of the vehicle, such as on a rear-view mirror.However, smaller vehicles (e.g., motorcycles) may not always have spacefor such a remote control or button. For example, for a motorcycle,various buttons may be provided on the handlebars of the motorcycle tooperate the vehicle, but the buttons are not intended for use toremotely control, for example, a garage door, security gate, or homesystem.

SUMMARY

One embodiment of the invention relates to a transmitter device forcoupling to a vehicle and for conducting a transmission to a remotesystem. The transmitter device includes a transmitter and a processingcircuit coupled to the transmitter and having an input interface. Theinput interface is coupled to an existing user interface of the vehiclefor receiving an input to cause the transmitter to conduct itstransmission to the remote system. The input interface is coupled to avehicle sensor for receiving a vehicle sensor input including a motionstatus of the vehicle. The processing circuit is configured to preventthe transmitter from conducting its transmission to the remote systemunless the motion status of the vehicle indicates the vehicle istravelling at a speed less than a threshold speed.

Another embodiment relates to a trainable transceiver unit configured tobe installed in a vehicle. The trainable transceiver unit includes auser input interface configured to receive a user input, a transceivercircuit configured to receive a control signal from an originaltransmitter and transmit an activation signal to control operation of aremote electronic system, and a processing circuit. The processingcircuit is configured to store a plurality of activation signals and aplurality of predetermined vehicle input patterns associated with theplurality of activation signals, receive a vehicle input pattern from anexisting vehicle user interface of the vehicle, identify the vehicleinput pattern, and cause the transceiver circuit to transmit anactivation signal associated with the identified vehicle input pattern.

Another embodiment relates to a vehicle. The vehicle includes a vehicleuser input interface configured to receive user control inputs andgenerate input signals based on the user control inputs; a data inputline coupled to the vehicle user interface; and a trainable transceiverincluding a transmitter configured to transmit an activation signal to aremote electronic system for controlling operation of the remoteelectronic system, a user input interface configured to receive userinput, an indicator LED, and a control circuit. The control circuit isconfigured to perform a patterning mode in which the control circuitreceives a first input signal from the vehicle user interface via thedata input line, extracts first user control inputs from the first inputsignal, and stores the first user control inputs in memory in responseto receiving a user input indicating successful training of thetrainable transmitter to the remote electronic system.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be inany way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments,and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and featureswill become apparent by reference to the drawings and the followingdetailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a drawing of a vehicle equipped with a trainable transceiverunit configured to communicate with a remote electronic device,according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the trainable transceiver unit and remoteelectronic device of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 is an electrical schematic diagram of the trainable transceiverunit of FIG. 2, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an installation of a trainabletransceiver unit in a vehicle, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of vehicle controls that can be used to provide userinput to a trainable transceiver unit in a vehicle, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating a process for integrating atrainable transceiver with a vehicle, according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating a trainabletransceiver in learn mode, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8A is a circuit diagram of a headlamp user interface controlcircuit configured to communicate with a trainable transceiver,according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8B is a circuit diagram of a user interface button, integrated witha vehicle, configured to communicate with a trainable transceiver,according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring generally to the FIGURES, trainable transceivers and methodsfor use therewith are shown and described. The trainable transceiver isconfigured to receive signals from existing user interfaces on avehicle, rather than the trainable transceiver supplying the buttons foroperation within its housing. This is particularly advantageous in thesituation where the trainable transceiver is coupled to a smallervehicle such as a motorcycle. The trainable transceiver can be wired tothe vehicle's existing buttons (directly or indirectly). So, forexample, buttons located on handle bar switch banks on a motorcycle canbe actuated in sequence to activate the transmission from the trainabletransceiver to the remote system (e.g., garage door opener). Theswitches may be allowed to carry out their normal function (e.g.,headlight activation, blinker activation, etc.) but also feed into themicrocontroller or button interfaces for the trainable transceiver. Forexample, when the high beam controls and/or other buttons are actuatedin a predetermined sequence, the trainable transceiver may receiveinputs representative of such control actuations and determine toconduct a transmission based on a predetermined sequence being detected.The trainable transceiver may include buttons local to it for training,but such buttons may not be used (especially if the trainabletransceiver is installed outside of reach of a motorcycle rider).

The next few paragraphs contain a general description of a trainabletransceiver prior to describing, in more detail, the integration of theexisting user interfaces with a trainable transceiver. The trainabletransceiver unit may be configured to “learn” the characteristics ofmultiple remote control signals generated by multiple remote controldevices (e.g., a remote control for a garage door, a security gate, ahome lighting system, a home security system, etc.) and store anindication of the multiple remote control signals in a local memorythereof for subsequent retransmission. The trainable transceiver unitmay reproduce a stored control signal upon receiving a user input (e.g.,via a predefined sequence of vehicle control inputs, a push button, avoice command, etc.) and transmit the stored control signal foroperating a remote electronic system or device.

The trainable transceiver unit may be integrated within a vehicle systemby integrating it with an existing control processor (e.g., a bodycontroller) and existing vehicle controls (e.g., turn signal controls,headlight controls, etc.) already existing in the vehicle. In someembodiments, the existing control processor may be an existing hardwarecomponent of a vehicle, but with a novel configuration to implementfeatures of the present disclosure. Advantageously, the trainabletransceiver unit may be able to receive a user input using the existingvehicle controls, so that further user input interfaces, beyond theexisting vehicle controls, are not necessary for causing the trainabletransceiver unit to transmit a control signal. For example, thesimultaneous activation of a high-beam headlight control and a left turnsignal control may be predefined as a user input identifying a firststored control signal. As another example, the simultaneous activationof a high-beam headlight control and a right turn signal control may bepredefined as a user input identifying a second stored control signal.In this way, the user may be able to cause the trainable transceiverunit to transmit particular stored control signals using existingvehicle controls provided on the vehicle. This may be advantageous insmall vehicles (e.g., motorcycles, mopeds, all-terrain vehicles, etc.)where limited space is available for providing further user inputdevices beyond the existing vehicle controls required for operation ofthe vehicle.

The trainable transceiver unit may include all the necessary processingelectronics for learning, storing, and retransmitting a control signal.The trainable transceiver unit may include user input devices (e.g.,buttons) that are used in order to train the trainable transceiver unitfor a particular control signal. Given that the trainable transceiverunit may only need to be trained infrequently to store particularcontrol signals, the user input devices required for training thetrainable transceiver unit may be provided in a location of the vehiclethat is not conveniently accessible while operating the vehicle (e.g.,under the seat of a motorcycle). The trainable transceiver unit mayfurther include a power source (e.g., a connection to the vehiclebattery, a dedicated battery used to power only the trainabletransceiver unit, etc.).

Referring now to FIG. 1, a perspective view of a vehicle 100 and garage110 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. Vehicle 100 may be amotorcycle, moped, all-terrain vehicle, or other vehicle. Vehicle 100 isshown to include a trainable transceiver unit 102. In some embodiments,trainable transceiver unit 102 may be integrated with vehicle controls104. Vehicle controls 104 may be control devices that are used by anoperator of vehicle 100 to drive or otherwise operate the vehicle. Forexample, vehicle controls 104 may be turn signal control switches,headlight control switches, hazard light control switches, cruisecontrol switches, etc.

Advantageously, trainable transceiver unit 102 may be configured tocommunicate with a control processor. The control processor may receiveinput signals from the vehicle controls 104. The control processor maytransmit output signals to trainable transceiver unit 102. The controlprocessor may transmit the output signals to trainable transceiver unit102 based on identifying a predefined pattern of input signals fromvehicle controls 104. The control processor may be configured toassociate one or more predefined patterns of input signals from vehiclecontrols 104 with one or more output signals to be transmitted totrainable transceiver unit 102. In this way, an operator of vehicle 100may be able to cause a particular output signal to be transmitted totrainable transceiver unit 102 by executing one or more predefinedpatterns of inputs using vehicle controls 104.

Trainable transceiver unit 102 is configured to communicate with aremote electronic system 112 of a garage 110 or other structure. In someembodiments, remote electronic system 112 is configured to controloperation of a garage door attached to garage 110. In other embodiments,remote electronic system 112 may be a home lighting system, a homesecurity system, a data network (e.g., LAN, WAN, cellular, etc.), a HVACsystem, or any other remote electronic system capable of receivingcontrol signals from trainable transceiver unit 102.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a block diagram of a system 200 including atrainable transceiver unit 102 and a remote electronic system 112 isshown, according to an exemplary embodiment. In brief overview,trainable transceiver unit 102 is shown to include user interfaceelements 202, a control circuit 208, and a transceiver circuit 218.

User interface elements 202 may facilitate communication between a user(e.g., driver, passenger, or other occupant of vehicle 100) andtrainable transceiver unit 102. For example, user interface elements 202may be used to receive input from a user. User interface elements 202are shown to include user input devices 204 and user input lines 230.

In some embodiments, user input devices 204 include one or more pushbuttons, switches, dials, knobs, touch-sensitive user input devices(e.g., piezoelectric sensors, capacitive touch sensors, etc.), or otherdevices for translating a tactile input into an electronic data signal.User input devices 204 may be integrated with a housing of trainabletransceiver unit 102. User input devices 204 may be accessible to a userat any one of various locations on a vehicle. For example, user inputdevices 204 may be accessible to an operator of a motorcycle vehicleunder the seat of the motorcycle vehicle. In such a situation, theoperator may need to first remove the seat of the motorcycle beforehaving access to user input devices 204. User input devices 204 mayprovide input signals to control circuit 208 for controlling operationof trainable transceiver unit 102.

User input devices 204 may include a touch screen interface throughwhich a user may input commands or information. User input devices 204may be able to display information to a user and allow the user to learnmore about the selections they are making. In some embodiments, userinput devices 204 may display a menu for a user to make a selectionfrom. For example, user input devices 204 may show a user optionsavailable to her. User input device 204 may display a list of remoteelectronic systems 112 which are associated with trainable transceiverunit 102. The user may then make a selection by touch through user inputdevices 204. In some embodiments, the user may enter a combination oftouch inputs corresponding to a control signal or other command storedin memory 212, such as a control signal for controlling a remoteelectronic system (e.g., combinations of swipes, multi-finger movements,pressure-sensitive presses, etc.). For example, a swipe up maycorrespond to opening a garage door or other movable gate, and a swipedown may correspond to closing a garage door or other movable gate.

In some embodiments, user input lines 230 include one or more datainputs to trainable transceiver unit 102. User input lines 230 mayprovide one or more electrical signals to the trainable transceiver unit102. The electrical signals received by trainable transceiver unit 102on user input lines 230 may indicate one or more control signals storedon trainable transceiver unit 102. In such cases, trainable transceiverunit 102 may respond to the reception of an electrical signal over aparticular user input line of user input lines 230 by transmitting theindicated control signal stored on trainable transceiver unit 102.

Still referring to FIG. 2, trainable transceiver unit 102 is shown toinclude a control circuit 208. Control circuit 208 may be configured toreceive input from user input devices 204 and user input lines 230.Control circuit 208 may further be configured to operate transceivercircuit 218 for conducting electronic data communications with remoteelectronic system 112.

Control circuit 208 is shown to include a processor 210 and memory 212.Processor 210 may be implemented as a general purpose processor, amicroprocessor, a microcontroller, an application specific integratedcircuit (ASIC), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), aCPU, a GPU, a group of processing components, or other suitableelectronic processing components.

Memory 212 may include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, Flash®memory, hard disk storage, etc.) for storing data and/or computer codefor completing and/or facilitating the various processes, layers, andmodules described in the present disclosure. Memory 212 may comprisevolatile memory or non-volatile memory. Memory 212 may include databasecomponents, object code components, script components, or any other typeof information structure for supporting the various activities andinformation structures described in the present disclosure. In someimplementations, memory 212 is communicably connected to processor 210via control circuit 208 and includes computer code (e.g., data modulesstored in memory 212) for executing one or more control processesdescribed herein.

Still referring to FIG. 2, trainable transceiver unit 102 is shown toinclude a transceiver circuit 218 and an antenna 220. Transceivercircuit 218 may include transmit and/or receive circuitry configured tocommunicate via antenna 220 with remote electronic system 112.Transceiver circuit 218 may be configured to transmit wireless controlsignals having control data for controlling remote electronic system112. Transceiver circuit 208 may be further configured to receivewireless status signals including status information from remoteelectronic system 112. Trainable transceiver unit 102 and remoteelectronic system 112 may communicate using any suitable wirelessstandard, (e.g., Bluetooth, WiFi, WiMax,etc.) or other communicationsprotocols compatible with or proprietary to remote electronic system112. Trainable transceiver unit 102 may be configured to learn andreplicate control signals using any wireless communications protocol.

In a training mode of operation, transceiver circuit 218 may beconfigured to receive one or more characteristics of an activationsignal sent from an original transmitter for use with remote electronicsystem 112. An original transmitter may be a remote or hand-heldtransmitter, which may be sold with remote electronic system 112 or asan after-market item. The original transmitter may be configured totransmit an activation signal at a predetermined carrier frequency andhaving control data configured to actuate remote electronic system 112.For example, the original transmitter may be a hand-held garage dooropener transmitter configured to transmit a garage door opener signal ata frequency (e.g., centered around 315 MHz or 355 MHz, etc.). Theactivation signal may include control data, which can be a fixed code, arolling code, or another cryptographically-encoded code. Remoteelectronic system 112 may be configured to open a garage door, forexample, in response to receiving the activation signal from theoriginal transmitter.

Transceiver circuit 218 may be configured to identify and store one ormore characteristics of the activation signal (e.g., signal frequency,control data, modulation scheme, etc.) from the original transmitter orfrom another source. In some embodiments, transceiver circuit 218 isconfigured to learn at least one characteristic of the activation signalby receiving the activation signal, determining the frequency of theactivation signal, and/or demodulating the control data from theactivation signal. Alternatively, trainable transceiver unit 102 canreceive one or more characteristics of the activation signal by othermethods of learning. For example, the one or more characteristics of theactivation signal can be preprogrammed into memory 212 duringmanufacture of trainable transceiver unit 102, input via user inputdevices 204, or learned via a “guess and test” method. In this manner,trainable transceiver unit 102 need not actually receive the activationsignal from an original transmitter in order to identify characteristicsof the activation signal. Trainable transceiver unit 102 may store thecharacteristics of the activation signal in memory 212.

In some embodiments, transceiver circuit 218 is configured to integratethe original transmitter as part of the wireless control system. Forexample, operation of the original transmitter within range of trainabletransceiver unit 102 may provide an activation signal to transceivercircuit 218, indicating that the signal was also sent to remoteelectronic system 112. In some embodiments, transceiver circuit 218eliminates the need for continued use of the original transmitter aftertraining is complete.

Transceiver circuit 218 may be configured to generate a carrierfrequency at any of a number of frequencies (e.g., in response to acontrol signal from control circuit 208). In some embodiments, thefrequencies generated can be in the ultra-high frequency range (e.g.,between 20 and 470 megahertz (MHz), between about 20 and 950 MHz,between about 280 and 434 MHz, up to 868 MHz, up to 920 MHz, up to 960MHz, etc.) or in other frequency ranges. The control data modulated withthe carrier frequency signal may be frequency shift key (FSK) modulated,amplitude shift key (ASK) modulated, or modulated using anothermodulation technique. Transceiver circuit 218 may be configured togenerate a wireless control signal having a fixed code, a rolling code,or other cryptographically encoded control code suitable for use withremote electronic system 112.

Transceiver circuit 218 may use antenna 220 to increase a range orsignal quality of the communications between trainable transceiver unit102 and remote electronic system 112. In some embodiments, antenna 220is a monopole antenna including a single antenna branch. In otherembodiments, a second antenna branch 222 may be used. Antenna branch 222and antenna 220 may be arranged in a dipole configuration (e.g.,extending in opposite directions from an antenna stem, as a dipole loop,etc.). Advantageously, the dipole configuration may improve systemperformance by preventing resonance at an undesirable frequency.

Still referring to FIG. 2, system 200 is shown to include a remoteelectronic system 112. Remote electronic system 112 may be any of aplurality of remote electronic systems, such as a garage door opener (asshown in FIG. 1), security gate control system, security lights, remotelighting fixtures or appliances, a home security system, or another setof remote devices. Remote electronic system 112 is shown to include atransceiver circuit 224 and an antenna 226. Transceiver circuit 224includes transmit and/or receive circuitry configured to communicate viaantenna 226 with trainable transceiver unit 102. Transceiver circuit 224may be configured to receive wireless control signals from trainabletransceiver unit 102. The wireless control signals may include controldata for controlling operation of remote electronic system 112.

Referring now to FIG. 3, an electrical schematic diagram 300 oftrainable transceiver unit 102 is shown, according to an exemplaryembodiment. Schematic diagram 300 illustrates the data and powerconnections within trainable transceiver unit 102 as well the electronicdata communications between trainable transceiver unit 102, remoteelectronic system 112, and remote transmitter 114.

Schematic diagram 300 is shown to include several of the components oftrainable transceiver unit 102 previously described with reference toFIG. 2. Schematic diagram 300 is shown to include several othercomponents, including buttons 302, 304, and 306, a switch interfacecircuit 308, a microcontroller 310, a RF circuit 312 with an attachedantenna 314, data input lines 318, 320, and 322, power line 324, andground line 326.

Notably, schematic diagram 300 illustrates the various components oftrainable transceiver unit 102 within a housing 316. Housing 316 may bea perimeter frame, rear housing, or other boundary. Advantageously, allcomponents of trainable transceiver unit 102 may be located within ormounted upon housing 316.

Still referring to FIG. 3, schematic diagram 300 is shown to includebuttons 302, 304, and 306. Buttons 302-306 may be an embodiment of userinput devices 204, as previously described with reference to FIG. 2. Forexample, buttons 302-306 may be user operable input devices forcontrolling operation of trainable transceiver unit 102. Each of buttons302-306 may be associated with (e.g., trained, programmed, configured tooperate, etc.) a different remote device controllable by trainabletransceiver unit 102. For example, button 302 may be associated with agarage door system, button 304 may be associated with an access gatesystem, and button 306 may be associated with a home lighting system.Buttons 302-306 may include any number of buttons.

In some embodiments, each remote electronic system 112 controlled bytrainable transceiver 102 requires a control signal having differentsignal characteristics (e.g., operating frequency, modulation scheme,security code, etc.). Each of buttons 302-306 may cause trainabletransceiver 102 to emit a control signal having different signalcharacteristics (e.g., for controlling multiple remote electronicsystems with a single device). The transmission of control signals toremote electronic system 112 is dependent on any of a number of factors,including the combination or permutation of buttons pressed. Forexample, a user may be able to transmit a certain control signal bypressing buttons 302 and 306 at once, or pressing button 302 and 304sequentially. In some embodiments, a user may be able to input acombination of simultaneous and sequential button presses. In someembodiments, input combinations include an expected order, such that afirst input in the combination corresponds to selection of a remoteelectronic system, a second input in the combination corresponds toselection of a device in the remote electronic system, a third input inthe combination corresponds to operation of the device, etc.

Still referring to FIG. 3, schematic diagram 300 is shown to includedata input lines 318, 320, and 322. Data input lines 318-322 may be anembodiment of user input lines 230, as previously described withreference to FIG. 2. For example, data input lines 318-322 may receivesignals corresponding to predefined patterns of input signals, thepredefined patterns of input signals input by an operator of the vehiclewith use of vehicle controls of the vehicle. Data input lines 318-322may include any number of data input lines. While data input lines318-322 are described as receiving signals in this disclosure, this isnot intended to limit the manner in which data input lines 318-322operate. Data input lines 318-322 may provide indications of particularstored control signals to microcontroller 310 in any of a variety ofways. For example, each of data input lines 318-322 may maintain a logiclow voltage level in default operation. When an operator of the vehicleinputs a predefined pattern of input signals associated with aparticular data input line of data input lines 318-322, that data inputline may be driven to a logic high voltage level. This logic highvoltage level may be received by the switch interface circuit 324 inorder to cause a corresponding signal to be transmitted tomicrocontroller 310.

In some embodiments, each remote electronic system 112 controlled bytrainable transceiver unit 102 requires a control signal havingdifferent signal characteristics (e.g., operating frequency, modulationscheme, security code, etc.). Each of buttons 302-306 may causetrainable transceiver unit 102 to store a control signal havingdifferent signal characteristics (e.g., for controlling multiple remoteelectronic systems with a single trainable transceiver unit). Each ofdata input lines 318-322 may cause trainable transceiver unit 102 totransmit a control signal having different signal characteristics (e.g.,for controlling multiple remote electronic systems with a singletrainable transceiver unit).

In some embodiments, each stored control signal may be associated withone button of buttons 302-306 and one data input line of data inputlines 318-322. For example, button 302 and data input line 318 may bothbe associated with a first control signal stored by trainabletransceiver unit 102. The user may cause trainable transceiver unit 102to store the first control signal based on pressing button 302 whiletransmitting a signal from remote transmitter 114. A signal received ondata input line 318 may then cause trainable transceiver unit 102 totransmit the first control signal using RF circuit 312 and antenna 314,whereupon it may be received by remote electronic system 112.

Switch interface circuit 308 may be a circuit element configured totranslate a user input received via buttons 302-306 and data input lines318-322 into an electrical signal for transmission to microcontroller310. Switch interface circuit 308 may receive an electric current and/orvoltage from power line 324 and selectively deliver the received currentand/or voltage to a particular port of microcontroller 310. In someembodiments, switch interface circuit 308 delivers the electric currentand/or voltage to a microcontroller port in response to receiving a userinput signal from one of buttons 302-306 or data input lines 318-322.The particular port of microcontroller 310 to which switch interfacecircuit 308 routes current and/or voltage may depend on which inputdevice provided the input, e.g., which of buttons 302-306 or data inputlines 318-322. Thus, microcontroller 310 may receive a different inputfrom switch interface circuit 308 (e.g., an input received at adifferent microcontroller port) based on which of buttons 302-306 ordata input lines 318-322 provided an input signal.

Still referring to FIG. 3, schematic diagram 300 is shown to include amicrocontroller 310 and a RF circuit 312. Microcontroller 310 and RFcircuit 312 may be embodiments of control circuit 208 and transceivercircuit 218 as previously described with reference to FIG. 2.Microcontroller 310 may be configured to receive an input from switchinterface circuit 308 and to operate RF circuit 312 in response to theinput.

RF circuit 312 may be configured to receive a control signal from remotetransmitter 114 (e.g., during a training mode of operation), to identifyone or more characteristics of the control signal (e.g., frequency,control data, modulation scheme, etc.), and to store the control signalcharacteristics in a local memory of trainable transceiver unit 102. RFcircuit 312 may receive and store any number of control signalcharacteristics corresponding to any number of remote transmitters 114.

RF circuit 312 may be configured to reproduce the control signal inresponse to an input received from microcontroller 310. For example, inresponse to a first input received from microcontroller 310 (e.g.,caused by a signal received on data input line 318), RF circuit 312 mayreproduce and transmit a first control signal via antenna 314. Inresponse to a second input received from microcontroller 310 (e.g.,caused by a signal received on data input line 320), RF circuit 312 mayreproduce and transmit a second control signal via antenna 314. Inresponse to a third input received from microcontroller 310 (e.g.,caused by a signal received on data input line 322), RF circuit 312 mayreproduce and transmit a third control signal via antenna 314.Advantageously, RF circuit 312 may be capable of reproducing any numberof control signals for operating any number of remote electronic systems112.

Referring now to FIG. 4, a schematic diagram of an installation of atrainable transceiver unit 102 in a vehicle 100 is shown, according toan exemplary embodiment. In this exemplary embodiment, vehicle 100 maybe a motorcycle. As such, vehicle 100 is shown having left handlebarcontrols 402 and right handlebar controls 406. Vehicle 100 is shown ashaving a body controller 410. Body controller 410 may be a controllerdevice provided in vehicle 100 to monitor and control various electronicaccessories of vehicle 100. Trainable transceiver unit 102 is shown.Trainable transceiver unit 102 may be an embodiment of the trainabletransceiver units previously discussed with reference to FIGS. 1-3.

In some embodiments, left handlebar controls 402 and right handlebarcontrols 406 may include vehicle controls for vehicle 100. For example,left handlebar controls 402 and right handlebar controls 406 may be turnsignal control switches, headlight control switches, hazard lightcontrol switches, cruise control switches, etc.

As shown, left handlebar controls 402 may provide an output signal 404to body controller 410 as input signal B 412. Likewise, right handlebarcontrols 406 may provide an output signal 408 to body controller 410 asinput signal A 414. Input signal B 412 and input signal A 414 mayinclude signals indicating the activation of left handlebar controls 402and right handlebar controls 406, respectively. For example, when theoperator of vehicle 100 changes a high-beam switch from an “off'position to an “on” position, input signal B 412 may provide anindication of this state change to body controller 410.

In some embodiments, signals 404, 408, 412, and 414 defining thecommunications interface between left handlebar controls 402/righthandlebar controls 406, and body controller 410 may be providedsubstantially the same as in vehicles without trainable transceiver unit102. Advantageously, left handlebar controls 402 and right handlebarcontrols 406 may be provided in vehicle 100 in the same way as providedin other vehicles that do not contain trainable transceiver unit 102.Stated in another way, some embodiments may be implemented without anymodification to left handlebar controls 402, right handlebar controls406, or the signaling between those controls and body controller 410.This may be advantageous in vehicles where the further addition of userinput devices is not desirable. For example, on a motorcycle there maybe limited space for adding additional user input devices, given thatthe user input devices may be primarily provided on the handlebars ofthe motorcycle. As another example, the operator of the motorcycle maynot desire to have additional user input devices on the handlebars, asthe addition of further user input devices may be confusing to theoperator given the large number of user input devices that may alreadybe provided on the handlebars of the motorcycle.

In some embodiments, body controller 410 may be configured to detectpredefined patterns of the input signals: input signal B 412 and inputsignal A 414. Body controller 410 may detect the predefined patternsusing hardware, e.g., with a dedicated circuit matching the predefinedpatterns. Body controller 410 may detect the predefined patterns usingsoftware, e.g., a state machine executed by a microprocessor of bodycontroller 410 and transitioning on the values of input signal B 412 andinput signal A 414. Body controller 410 may detect the predefinedpatterns using hardware and software. When body controller 410 detects apredefined pattern of input signals, body controller 410 may transmit acorresponding output signal, such as output signal A 416, output signalB 418, or output signal C 420. Each output signal of output signals416-420 may be associated with a particular one predefined pattern thatbody controller 410 is configured to detect. Transmitting an outputsignal 416-420 may include driving a voltage level for the selectedoutput signal line from a logic low voltage level to a logic highvoltage level. In some embodiments, a user may define the predefinedpatterns, such as during a patterning process for the body controller410 and/or trainable transceiver unit 102 to receive and store thepatterns. For example, when installing trainable transceiver 102, whenmodifying settings of trainable transceiver 102, or when trainingtrainable transceiver 102 to remote electronic system 112, a part of thepatterning process may include a user defining a predefined patternusing user inputs as disclosed herein, and the body controller 410and/or trainable transceiver unit 102 may record the predefined patternto associate the predefined pattern with a particular control signal.

In some embodiments, trainable transceiver unit 102 may be configured toreceive an input signal as input signal A 318, input signal B 320, orinput signal C 322 corresponding to the output signal transmitted bybody controller 410. As shown, each output signal of body controller 410may be associated with a single input signal of trainable transceiverunit 102. Trainable transceiver unit 102 may store a control signal foreach of input signals 318-322. Therefore, as discussed with reference toFIG. 3, trainable transceiver unit 102 may be caused to transmit aparticular stored control signal using an RF resource and an antennabased on which of input signals 318-322 was received.

Summarizing some of the features just described with reference to FIG.4, it can be seen that some embodiments allow an operator of vehicle 100to cause a stored control signal to be transmitted using only apredefined pattern of activation of the existing vehicle controlsprovided on the vehicle 100. Taking the example of vehicle 100 providedas a motorcycle, the system just described with reference to FIG. 4 maybe advantageous in that the operator of the motorcycle may be able toenter a garage or gated area while (1) there is no requirement to havespecial user input devices provided on the handlebars, and (2) there isno requirement to have the operator to carry a separate transmitter oraccess card on his/her person. In such an embodiment with vehicle 100provided as a motorcycle, the convenience and safety of the operator ofvehicle 100 may be greatly improved based on these advantageousfeatures.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a diagram of vehicle controls that can be usedto provide user input to trainable transceiver unit 102 in a vehicle 100is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. In this exemplaryembodiment, vehicle 100 may be a motorcycle. As such, vehicle 100 isshown having a left handlebar 510 and a right handlebar 530.

Left handlebar 510 has various vehicle controls provided thereon: turnsignal switch 512, headlight high beam toggle switch 514, headlight highbeam spring switch 516, and hazard lights toggle switch 518. Turn signalswitch 512 may be defined by four states. In a default state, turnsignal switch 512 may be in the center position. In a left state, turnsignal switch 512 may be moved lateral to the left, whereupon the leftturn signal is activated (and turn signal switch 512 may be released tothe center position). In a right state, turn signal switch 512 may bemoved lateral to the right, whereupon the right turn signal is activated(and turn signal switch 512 may be released to the center position). Ina pressed state, turn signal switch 512 may be depressed in towards lefthandlebar 510, whereupon all turn signals present become deactivated.Headlight high beam toggle switch 514 may be defined by two states. In afirst state with the toggle switch pressed forward, the high beamheadlight is not activated. In a second state with the toggle switchpressed rearward, the high beam headlight is activated. Headlight highbeam toggle switch 514 may remain in the state in which it is placeduntil further force is applied to again change the state. Headlight highbeam spring switch 516 may have two states representing activation anddeactivation of the high beam headlight as described for headlight highbeam toggle switch 514. However, headlight high beam spring switch 516may default to a not activated state, and spring back from the activatedstate to the deactivated state unless continuous pressure is applied.Hazard lights toggle switch 518 may have two states representingactivation and deactivation of the hazard lights.

Right handlebar 530 has various vehicle controls provided thereon:vehicle power toggle switch 532, ignition switch 534, cruise controlenable/disable switch 536, and cruise control set/reset switch 538.Vehicle power toggle switch 532 may have two states representingactivation and deactivation of the electrical power and ignition forvehicle 100. Ignition switch 534 may be a two-state switch, with adefault inactive state and another state that causes activation of theignition system. Cruise control enable/disable switch 536 may have twostates representing activation and deactivation of the cruise controlfeature. Cruise control set/reset switch 538 may have four states andoperate similarly to turn signal switch 512, but with the followingstates: center position causes no action, left position sets currentspeed to the cruise speed and begins cruising, right position resetsprevious cruise speed to the cruise speed and begins cruising, andpressed position stops cruising.

Based on this explanation of exemplary vehicle controls of FIG. 5,various predefined patterns of input signals can be discussed. As oneexemplary embodiment, three different predefined patterns may be used. Afirst predefined pattern may be indicated by the user and detected bybody controller 410 based on pressing headlight high beam spring switch516 and, while switch 516 is still pressed, pressing turn signal switch512 to the center, depressed position. Upon the user operating thevehicle controls as such, body controller 410 may detect the firstpredefined pattern and transmit a signal to trainable transceiver unit102 on a first data input line. This may be effective to cause trainabletransceiver unit 102 to transmit a first stored control signal. As anexample, the user may input the first predefined pattern when arrivinghome with the first stored control signal effective to open the user'sgarage door. A second predefined pattern may be indicated by the userand detected by body controller 410 based on pressing headlight highbeam spring switch 516 and, while switch 516 is still pressed, pressingthe turn signal switch 512 to the left position. A third predefinedpattern may be indicated by the user and detected by body controller 410based on pressing headlight high beam spring switch 516 and, whileswitch 516 is still pressed, pressing turn signal switch 512 to theright position. The second predefined pattern may correspond to a secondstored control signal that is effective to open a security gate in theneighborhood where the user lives. The third predefined pattern maycorrespond to a third stored control signal that is effective to open agate at a garage in the building where the user works. In this way, theuser may be able to cause particular control signals to be transmittedbased on using existing vehicle controls provided on the vehicle 100 inparticular patterns. Other predefined patterns using other vehiclecontrols are possible with various embodiments.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a flowchart of a process for providing atrainable transceiver unit in a vehicle is shown, according to anexemplary embodiment. The process begins at step 600.

The process continues at step 602. At step 602, the trainabletransceiver unit is installed in the vehicle. This step may includephysically attaching the trainable transceiver unit to the vehicle orsome other component thereof. For example, the trainable transceiverunit may be installed under a seat of the vehicle, or in any otherlocation accessible to the vehicle's electronics, even if the locationis not easily accessible by a driver or passenger of the vehicle.

The process continues at step 604. At step 604, a body controller isinstalled in the vehicle. This step may include physically attaching thebody controller to the vehicle or some other component thereof. In otherembodiments, the vehicle includes a pre-existing body controller, inwhich case this step may be omitted. In other embodiments, apre-existing body controller is replaced.

The process continues at step 606. At step 606, inputs of the bodycontroller are connected to vehicle controls. This step may includecreating wired connections between vehicle controls provided on thevehicle and one or more input terminals of the body controller. Forexample, handlebar controls, headlight controls, turn single controls,cruise controls, etc., may be wired to the input terminals of the bodycontroller. In some embodiments, vehicle controls provided on thevehicle may already be wired to input terminals of the body controller.

The process continues at step 608. At step 608, outputs of the bodycontroller are connected to inputs of the trainable transceiver unit.This step may include creating wired connections between one or moreoutput terminals of the body controller and one or more input terminalsof the trainable transceiver unit. The wired connections from thevehicle controls, through the body controller, to the trainabletransceiver unit may be tested, such as by actuating a vehicle controland identifying a corresponding indication signal outputted by thetrainable transceiver unit (e.g., an LED flash, an audio output, etc.).At step 608, predefined patterns may also be tested and/or recorded atthe trainable transceiver unit for future association with vehiclecontrols and reference to for outputting control signals to a remoteelectronic system. The process ends at step 610.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a flowchart of a process for training atrainable transceiver unit in a vehicle 100 is shown, according to anexemplary embodiment. The process begins at step 700.

In step 702, trainable transceiver unit 102 may be installed under aseat of vehicle 100. The exemplary installation location identified inthe process of FIG. 7 is chosen for security of trainable transceiverunit 102 to reduce the likelihood of losing or damaging trainabletransceiver unit 102. This step may involve disassembling the seatstructure of vehicle 100 and placing trainable transceiver unit 102 in alocation specifically designated in vehicle 100 for trainabletransceiver 102. In some embodiments, trainable transceiver unit 102 isa standalone unit and is simply attached under the seat of vehicle 100.Trainable transceiver unit 102 may be installed in a location other thanunder the seat of vehicle 100. In some embodiments, trainabletransceiver unit 102 is installed or attached to a more easilyaccessible location. For example, trainable transceiver unit 102 may beattached to the frame of vehicle 100.

The process continues at step 704. At step 704, an input of a specificsequence or combination associated with entering a learning or trainingmode is entered through user input devices 204. This step may includethe operator of the vehicle accessing user input devices and/or thetrainable transceiver unit in a location that is generally notaccessible during regular operation of the vehicle (e.g., under the seatof a motorcycle). In some embodiments, the sequence may be a certainorder of button presses. In other embodiments, a combination of buttonspressed simultaneously will enter training mode. The specific sequenceor combination associated with entering the training mode may depend onthe embodiment of user input devices 204. User input devices 204 may bea microphone into which a user may provide voice commands. In someembodiments, user input devices 204 may be a touch screen or otherdevice through which a user may provide tactile input. The specificsequence or combination may be a certain gesture, or a user may make aselection from a menu of options provided on user input device 204. Itis understood that the sequence or combination associated with enteringthe training mode may be any sequence or combination of inputs to userinput devices 204.

In step 706, the original transmitter is placed in proximity totrainable transceiver unit 102. Proximity may be defined as within therange of operation of trainable transceiver unit 102, and may depend onthe communications protocol through which trainable transceiver unit 102communicates with remote electronic device 112. In some embodiments,trainable transceiver unit 102 communicates through RF and the range oftrainable transceiver unit 102 depends on the frequency at which acontrol signal is transmitted. For example, the original transmitter maybe positioned 1-3″ from trainable transceiver unit 102.

The process continues at step 708. A button of the original transmitterwhich performs the desired action may be pressed while the originaltransmitter is still in proximity to trainable transceiver unit 102. Insome embodiments, the button is the only button on the originaltransmitter. In some embodiments, there are multiple functions of theoriginal transmitter. The original transmitter may have multiple inputmethods. For example, the original transmitter may have a touch screen,microphone, or any other input method. In some embodiments, trainabletransceiver unit 102 is able to learn multiple functions of the originaltransmitter simultaneously. In other embodiments, trainable transceiverunit 102 is able to learn one function of the original transmitter at atime.

In step 710, trainable transceiver unit 102 may be trained to performactions associated with the original transmitter. Trainable transceiverunit 102 may be configured to receive one or more characteristics of anactivation signal sent from an original transmitter for use with remoteelectronic system 112. An original transmitter may be a remote orhand-held transmitter, which may be sold with remote electronic system112 or as an after-market item. The original transmitter may beconfigured to transmit an activation signal at a predetermined carrierfrequency and having control data configured to actuate remoteelectronic system 112. For example, the original transmitter may be ahand-held garage door opener transmitter configured to transmit a garagedoor opener signal at a frequency (e.g., centered around 315 MHz or 390MHz, etc.). The activation signal may include control data, which can bea fixed code, a rolling code, or another cryptographically-encoded code.Remote electronic system 112 may be configured to open a garage door,for example, in response to receiving the activation signal from theoriginal transmitter. In some embodiments, predetermined inputs areentered to be associated with control signals. For example, a user maydefine predetermined patterns for training to control a remoteelectronic system for controlling multiple garage doors of a garage doorsystem. The user may actuate a high beam toggle switch and then actuatea left turn signal to associate an activation signal with a left door ofthe garage door system. The user may then actuate the high beam toggleswitch and then actuate a right turn signal to associate an activationsignal with a right door of the garage door system. Feedback may beprovided from trainable transceiver unit 102 to guide the user inassociating vehicle controls with activation signals. For example,trainable transceiver unit 102 may flash an LED or provide audiofeedback, etc., to guide the user. In some embodiments, suchpredetermined patterns are already stored in the trainable transceiverunit and defaulted to during the training process, without requiring auser to enter inputs with the vehicle controls.

The process continues with step 712. If the activation signal controldata is a fixed code, the process ends with step 714. If the activationsignal control data is a rolling code, the process continues with step716. In some embodiments, the activation signal control data is anothercryptographically-encoded code, and may require a different process thanthe one illustrated in FIG. 7. It is understood that the trainingprocess of trainable transceiver 102 is not limited to the processillustrated in FIG. 7, and that this process is simply shown accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

The process may continue with step 716. If the activation signal controldata is a rolling code, a user may synchronize their trained trainabletransceiver unit 102 to the corresponding remote electronic system 112.In an exemplary embodiment, remote electronic system 112 is a garagedoor opener. The user may press the garage door opener once and thenprovide an input associated with controlling remote electronic system112. For example, a user may toggle high beam toggle switch 514 or flipswitch 858 to trainable transceiver control. After synchronizing trainedtrainable transceiver unit 102 with remote electronic system 112, theprocess ends with step 714.

Referring now to FIG. 8A, a circuit diagram of a headlamp user interfacecontrol circuit 800 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment.Headlamp user interface control circuit 800 is configured to control aheadlamp of a vehicle (in some embodiments, a motorcycle 100). Headlampcontrol circuit 800 is shown to include a headlight 802 of vehicle 100,a signal generator 804, engaged ignition switch 808, high beam toggleswitch 514, and trainable transceiver 102. Trainable transceiver unit102 is shown to include indicator 806, user input devices 204, andcontrol circuit 208.

Ignition switch 808 is engaged in an exemplary embodiment. Controlcircuit 800 may receive power from the vehicle battery, and may only beoperable when vehicle 100 is on. In some embodiments, control circuit800 receives power from a different power source, and may be operatedwhen the ignition of vehicle 100 is not on.

Signal generator 804 may be a function generator. In some embodiments,signal generator provides a different control signal to headlight 802which comprises different bulbs for high beam and low beam operation. Insome embodiments, the high beam and low beam are produced from differentfilaments of the same bulb. Signal generator 804 may control whichfilament is used. It is understood that headlight 802 may be any systemor assembly of headlight that may be found in a vehicle.

Indicator 806 may be an LED. In some embodiments, indicator 806 is anexisting LED integrated with vehicle 100. Indicator 806 may be any typeof component which provides feedback to a user. In some embodiments,indicator 806 may be a speaker which plays a sound. In otherembodiments, indicator 806 may be a screen, a touch screen, or anyportion of a user interface device. Indicator 806 may be a vibrationunit, or otherwise provide tactile feedback to a user. It is understoodthat indicator 806 may provide feedback to a user in any aural, visual,or other form. Indicator 806 may be controlled to indicate successful orunsuccessful training, patterning, and/or connection operations, such assuccessful/unsuccessful training to a remote electronic system,connection and/or patterning to a body controller, connection and/orpatterning to vehicle user inputs, etc.

Input from high beam toggle switch 514 is sent to the control circuit(e.g., control circuit 208) of trainable transceiver 102 as an input.The control circuit may associate different inputs from high beam toggleswitch 514 with different activation signals for activating differentcomponents of a remote electronic system or different remote electronicsystems. In some embodiments, a specific method of toggling high beamtoggle switch 514 is recognized as a specific combination forcontrolling trainable transceiver 102. For example, toggling high beamtoggle switch 514 high-low-high may activate a first stored controlsignal of trainable transceiver unit 102, such as a stored controlsignal that corresponds to turning on the lights of a user's home.Toggling high beam toggle switch 514 low-high-low may activate a secondstored control signal of trainable transceiver unit 102. In someembodiments, input from the high beam toggle switch 514 is received incombination with other input devices such as turn signal switch 512 mayactivate a third stored control signal of the trainable transceiver 102that corresponds to enabling a home security system of a user. It isunderstood that input from the high beam toggle switch 514 may becombined with input from any user input devices 204 to produce arecognized combination which activates a stored control signal of thetrainable transceiver 102.

When input from high beam toggle switch 514 is received by trainabletransceiver 102, control circuit 208 determines the action to take. Insome embodiments, control circuit 208 may command indicator 806 toprovide feedback to a user to indicate that their input has beenreceived, and that an action is being taken. Indicator 806 may be ableto show a user which action is being taken, through any of a number ofcommunication methods. In some embodiments, indicator 806 is an LEDwhich may flash a certain number of times to indicate which storedcontrol signal is being transmitted. In other embodiments, indictor 806is a speaker which plays audio to inform the user which action is beingperformed. Indicator 806 may be a vibration unit which vibrates for acertain amount of time or for a certain number of times or in a certainpattern to alert the user that their input has been received, and that aspecific action is being taken.

In some embodiments, trainable transceiver 102 is operable in aplurality of modes. The mode in which trainable transceiver is currentlyoperating may be communicated to a user through indicator 806. Forexample, if trainable transceiver 102 is currently in a mode in which auser may train trainable transceiver to learn a specific control signal,indicator 806 may flash a certain color, in a specific pattern, or for acertain number of times or amount of time. In some embodiments,indicator 806 may play audio to inform the user which mode he is in orbeep for a certain amount of time or number of times. Indicator 806 mayvibrate in a certain pattern, for a certain amount of time, or for acertain number of times. It is understood that indicator 806 may providefeedback to the user regarding which mode he is in in any aural, visual,or tactile way.

In some embodiments, control circuit 208 is configured to determinewhether to accept an input or perform the corresponding action. Controlcircuit 208 may communicate with sensors integrated with a vehicle 100,and receive inputs which provide information regarding the status ofvehicle 100. In some embodiments, control circuit 208 may use thecurrent speed of vehicle 100 to determine whether to execute a commandcorresponding to an input received. Control circuit 208 may preventtransmission of a control signal unless the vehicle speed or enginespeed is less than a threshold (e.g., vehicle speed is less than 5 mph,less than 10 mph, etc.). For example, if vehicle 100 is currently going85 mph, control circuit 208 may not transmit a control messagecorresponding to a user input, but if vehicle 100 is current going 8mph, and the threshold speed is 10 mph, control circuit 208 may transmita control message corresponding to a user input. This feature may beactivated for safety reasons to discourage distracted driving orunwanted consequences. Blocking control messages may also reduce batterydrain and increase operable lifetime of a trainable transceiver 102.This feature may prevent frequent disassembly and installation oftrainable transceiver 102 from and on vehicle 100. Control circuit 208may also be configured to operate in a low power mode in which controlmessages are blocked based on vehicle status, and a normal or high powermode in which control messages are not blocked, the power mode selectiondepending on an energy level of the battery (e.g., a battery energystatus is less than a battery energy threshold such as 10 percentcapacity, 20 percent capacity, etc.).

Referring now to FIG. 8B, a circuit diagram of an integrated trainabletransceiver control circuit 850, integrated with a vehicle 100,configured to communicate with a trainable transceiver, is shownaccording to an exemplary embodiment. Integrated control circuit 850 isshown to include, in one embodiment, a horn 852, a signal generator 804,a switch 854, an indicator LED 856, engaged ignition switch 808, andtrainable transceiver unit 102. Trainable transceiver unit 102 is shownto include indicator 806, user input devices 204, and control circuit208.

Horn 852 may be any component controlled by an input device on ahandlebar of the vehicle 100. In some embodiments, horn 852 may be ahazard light or turn signal light. The control circuit of trainabletransceiver 102 shown in FIG. 8B differs from that of FIG. 8A in theinput method and connections included.

In some embodiments, switch 854 may be a button which already exists onvehicle 100. Switch 854 may be designated as a button for communicatingwith trainable transceiver unit 102. Switch 854 may share a circuit withan existing feature such as horn 852. In some embodiments, switch 854may be a toggle switch which switches between providing the function ofthe existing feature, such as honking horn 852, and providing input totrainable transceiver 102. When an input is received, control circuit208 may command indicator 806 to provide feedback to a user. IndicatorLED 856 may be an LED. In some embodiments, indicator LED 856 isintegrated with switch 854. In some embodiments, indicator LED is anytype of indicator which may provide feedback to a user.

The construction and arrangement of the systems and methods as shown inthe various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only afew embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, manymodifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions,structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values ofparameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors,orientations, etc.). For example, the position of elements may bereversed or otherwise varied and the nature or number of discreteelements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all suchmodifications are intended to be included within the scope of thepresent disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method stepsmay be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments.Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be madein the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the exemplaryembodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems and programproducts on any machine-readable media for accomplishing variousoperations. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implementedusing existing computer processors, or by a special purpose computerprocessor for an appropriate system, incorporated for this or anotherpurpose, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of thepresent disclosure include program products comprising machine-readablemedia for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or datastructures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be anyavailable media that can be accessed by a general purpose or specialpurpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example,such machine-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROMor other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magneticstorage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or storedesired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions ordata structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose orspecial purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Wheninformation is transferred or provided over a network or anothercommunications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or a combinationof hardwired or wireless) to a machine, the machine properly views theconnection as a machine-readable medium. Thus, any such connection isproperly termed a machine-readable medium. Combinations of the above arealso included within the scope of machine-readable media.Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions anddata which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer,or special purpose processing machines to perform a certain function orgroup of functions.

Although the figures show a specific order of method steps, the order ofthe steps may differ from what is depicted. Also two or more steps maybe performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Such variationwill depend on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designerchoice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure.Likewise, software implementations could be accomplished with standardprogramming techniques with rule based logic and other logic toaccomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparisonsteps and decision steps.

What is claimed is:
 1. A transmitter device for coupling to a vehicleand for conducting a transmission to a remote system, comprising: atransmitter; and a processing circuit coupled to the transmitter andhaving an input interface; wherein the input interface is coupled to anexisting user interface of the vehicle for receiving an input to causethe transmitter to conduct its transmission to the remote system, andwherein the input interface is coupled to a vehicle sensor for receivinga vehicle sensor input indicating a motion status of the vehicle; andwherein the processing circuit is configured to prevent the transmitterfrom conducting its transmission to the remote system unless the motionstatus of the vehicle indicates the vehicle is travelling at a speedless than a threshold speed.
 2. The transmitter device of claim 1,wherein the existing user interface has at least one function that isnot related to the transmitter and which independently responds toactuation regardless of whether the transmitter device is also usinginformation from the existing user interface to trigger its transmissionto the remote system.
 3. The transmitter device of claim 1, wherein thetransmitter device comprises a first set of buttons local to thetransmitter and the processing circuit therefor; the first set ofbuttons being separate from the existing user interface.
 4. Thetransmitter device of claim 3, wherein the processing circuit isconfigured to use inputs from the first set of buttons local to thetransmitter for initial training of the transmitter or for configurationof the transmitter.
 5. The transmitter device of claim 1, wherein thevehicle is a motorcycle and the existing user interface is at least oneof a handle bar switch and a blinker switch.
 6. The transmitter deviceof claim 1, wherein the input interface comprises multiple signal lineinputs, and wherein the processing circuit is configured to monitor fora predefined sequence to be observed on the multiple signal line inputsto cause the transmitter to conduct its transmission to the remotesystem.
 7. The transmitter device of claim 6, wherein the input from theexisting user interface is a predetermined pattern of toggling.
 8. Thetransmitter device of claim 6, further comprising an indicatorconfigured to provide a user with the status of the transmitter devicebased on the input received.
 9. A trainable transceiver unit configuredto be installed in a vehicle, comprising: a user input interfaceconfigured to receive a user input; a transceiver circuit configured toreceive a control signal from an original transmitter and transmit anactivation signal to control operation of a remote electronic system;and a processing circuit configured to store a plurality of activationsignals and a plurality of predetermined vehicle input patternsassociated with the plurality of activation signals, receive a vehicleinput pattern from an existing vehicle user interface of the vehicle,identify the vehicle input pattern, and cause the transceiver circuit totransmit an activation signal associated with the identified vehicleinput pattern.
 10. The trainable transceiver unit of claim 9, whereinthe user input interface is a tactile interface, and the user interfaceis configured to receive a first tactile input corresponding to a motionassociated with a first activation signal, and a second tactile inputcorresponding to a motion associated with a second activation signal.11. The trainable transceiver unit of claim 9, wherein the processingcircuit prevents transmission of the activation signal unless a vehiclesensor input indicates that a speed of the vehicle is less than athreshold speed.
 12. The trainable transceiver unit of claim 9, whereinthe processing circuit is only configured to prevent transmission of theactivation signal if a battery energy level is less than a batteryenergy threshold.
 13. The trainable transceiver unit of claim 9, whereinthe processing circuit is configured to operate in a training mode forlearning a first activation signal for controlling operation of a firstremote electronic system, wherein in the training mode, the processingcircuit is further configured to receive a predetermined pattern ofvehicle user inputs from the existing vehicle user interface toassociate with the first activation signal.
 14. The trainabletransceiver unit of claim 9, wherein the trainable transceiver unit isconfigured to transmit the activation signal in response to the vehicleinput pattern causing a data input line coupled between the trainabletransceiver unit and the vehicle user interface to switch from a logiclow voltage level to logic high voltage level.
 15. The trainabletransceiver unit of claim 9, wherein each vehicle pattern includes atleast two vehicle inputs, wherein a first vehicle input corresponds toselection of a selected remote electronic system, and a second vehicleinput corresponds to operation of a device of the selected remoteelectronic system.
 16. The trainable transceiver unit of claim 9,wherein the first vehicle input being actuation of a high-beam toggleswitch corresponds to selection of a garage door system, the secondvehicle input being actuation of a left turn signal corresponds tooperation of a left garage door of the garage door system, and thesecond vehicle input being actuation of a right turn signal correspondsto operation of a right garage door.
 17. A vehicle comprising: a vehicleuser input interface configured to receive user control inputs andgenerate input signals based on the user control inputs; a data inputline coupled to the vehicle user interface; and a trainable transceiverincluding: a transmitter configured to transmit an activation signal toa remote electronic system for controlling operation of the remoteelectronic system; a user input interface configured to receive userinput; an indicator LED; and a control circuit configured to perform apatterning mode in which the control circuit receives a first inputsignal from the vehicle user interface via the data input line, extractsfirst user control inputs from the first input signal, and stores thefirst user control inputs in memory in response to receiving a userinput indicating successful training of the trainable transmitter to theremote electronic system.
 18. The vehicle of claim 17, wherein thecontrol circuit is further configured to perform an operating mode inwhich the control circuit receives a second input signal from thevehicle user interface via the data input line, extracts second usercontrol inputs from the second input signal, compares the second usercontrol inputs to the first user inputs to determine if the second usercontrol inputs represent a predetermined pattern, and in response todetermining that the second user control inputs represent apredetermined pattern, cause the transmitter to transmit the activationsignal.
 19. The vehicle of claim 17, wherein the trainable transceiveris configured to transmit the activation signal in response to the inputsignal causing the data input line to switch a logic low voltage levelto a logic high voltage level.
 20. The vehicle of claim 17, wherein thecontrol circuit is further configured to determine if the trainabletransceiver has been successfully connected to the vehicle userinterface, in response to determining that the trainable transceiver hasbeen successfully connected to the vehicle user interface, cause theindicator LED to flash in a first sequence; and in response todetermining that the trainable transceiver has not been successfullyconnected to the vehicle user interface, cause the indicator LED toflash in a second sequence.